Things To Do
in Syracuse
Syracuse sits inland along Onondaga Lake in central New York, shaped by its industrial past and academic vitality. It is anchored by Syracuse University and a growing arts scene that animates downtown Armory Square with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The city blends historic neighborhoods, galleries, and parks with waterfront paths along the Erie Canal.
Winters are snowy and crisp, while summers offer warm days and convenient access to nearby natural spaces.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Armory Square, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, embark on a walking tour of the historic district, taking in the stunning architecture of the late 19th-century buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Onondaga County Courthouse, a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture.
For lunch, savor some traditional Syracuse-style chicken riggies at a nearby restaurant, a local favorite. Afterward, visit the Erie Canal Museum and learn about the historical significance of the canal in the region's development. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Clinton Square, where you can relax by the fountains and watch the hustle and bustle of city life.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting of Syracuse's craft beers. Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights the region’s fresh produce and meats. Finish your evening with a stroll along the banks of Onondaga Lake, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your day at the Everson Museum of Art, known for its impressive collection of American art. Spend time admiring the contemporary exhibitions and the museum's unique architecture. Enjoy a light brunch at the museum café, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, visit the Syracuse Stage for a behind-the-scenes tour or catch a matinee performance if available. After the show, explore the nearby Landmark Theatre, a beautifully restored venue showcasing a variety of performances. Take a leisurely walk through Armory Square to explore local shops and galleries.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant featuring live music, where you can enjoy both the cuisine and the local talent. After dinner, take a stroll to the historic Westcott neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and eclectic bars. End your night with a drink at a rooftop bar, taking in stunning views of the Syracuse skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1.75-2.25 |
| 🏠1 bedroom apartment in city center | $1,200-1,600 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $100-180 |
| 🛒Monthly groceries | $350-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university presence and college-town energy
- Compact, walkable downtown with diverse dining
- Excellent access to parks and outdoor spaces
- Museum and cultural attractions nearby
- Harsh winter months with heavy snow
- Traffic around downtown can be congested during peak hours
- Some neighborhoods require driving for longer trips
- Prices higher than rural upstate areas, but still reasonable
Places to Visit in Syracuse
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic glass atrium and sculpture-filled interiors provide great architectural and detail shots.
Historic storefronts, neon signs, and lively streets create dynamic night photography opportunities.
Gothic revival architecture and expansive quads offer classic campus photography moments.
Waterfront trails, bridges, and skyline views ideal for golden-hour photography.
Food in Syracuse
Syracuse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny baby potatoes boiled in salted water and served with melted butter and herbs; a regional staple found in diners and at fairs.
Must-Try!
A hearty Italian-American sandwich featuring tender meatballs, marinara, and cheese, widely available in downtown pizzerias and delis.
Crisp-crust slices with classic toppings, common across Armory Square and campus-area eateries.
Popular sides and fillings at many local pizzerias and Italian spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large, vibrant market offering produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods; best experienced on market days (Wednesdays and Saturdays).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with a friendly hello; hold doors for others; tipping culture is standard in service industries.
Safety
Tipping in Syracuse
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tips for service staff apply to delivery and coffee shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms; great for outdoor parks, waterfront strolls, and events downtown.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; ideal for walking tours, campus photos, and scenic drives near the lakes.
Cold with frequent snow and lake-effect snow possible; indoors offer cozy cafés, museums, and winter sports.
Mild days with rain showers and blooming displays; great for urban strolls and outdoor markets reopening.
Syracuse at Night
Hiking in Syracuse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic woods and boardwalks around turquoise Green Lake in Green Lakes State Park.
Flat to rolling canal-side trails ideal for biking and leisurely hikes.
Airports
How to reach Syracuse by plane.
Located about 6-8 miles from downtown; convenient for domestic flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically the largest group in the city, with growing diversity across neighborhoods.
A significant constituent of the city’s population with vibrant cultural communities.
A smaller but growing community contributing to the city’s diversity.
A smaller but increasing presence in the region.
Includes multiracial individuals and newer residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The university teams are a regional highlight; fans flock to home games and rival matchups.
Strong local participation and college-team events, often held at the Carrier Dome.
Syracuse University football games draw crowds in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Syracuse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer veggie burgers, salads, and pasta; ask for meat-free sauces and request no meat stock in soups.